Podcast Summary: The Daily – 'The Interview': Sandra Oh Knows What's Great About Middle Age
Episode Information:
- Title: The Interview: Sandra Oh Knows What's Great About Middle Age
- Release Date: July 19, 2025
- Host: Lulu Garcia Navarro
- Guests: Sandra Oh
- Duration: Approximately 44 minutes
Introduction
In this episode of The Daily, host Lulu Garcia Navarro engages in a profound and intimate conversation with acclaimed actress Sandra Oh. The discussion delves into Sandra's illustrious career, her experiences with aging, personal growth, and the challenges she has faced in Hollywood as an Asian woman. The interview also touches on Sandra's recent ventures, including her upcoming role in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night.
Sandra Oh’s Career Journey
Sandra Oh is renowned for her groundbreaking roles in Grey's Anatomy and Killing Eve. Her portrayal of Dr. Christina Yang on Grey's Anatomy spanned ten seasons, while her role as Eve Polastri in Killing Eve has been critically acclaimed. Beyond television, Sandra is set to perform in Twelfth Night at Shakespeare in the Park in New York City, marking her return to the stage.
Notable Quote:
- Lulu Garcia Navarro [00:38]: "Sandra Oh knows all about that journey."
Receiving Public Acclaim and Its Impact
Sandra discusses her journey in embracing public admiration and how receiving praise took time for her to internalize. She reflects on a quote from Twelfth Night that resonates with her personal growth.
Notable Quote:
- Sandra Oh [03:14]: "I really take that question to heart because it's taken me a long time to actually really receive it."
Personal Reflections and Journaling
The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Sandra shares excerpts from her diaries, revealing her struggles with self-doubt and mental health during her early years. She highlights the importance of journaling as a coping mechanism and a tool for self-discovery.
Diary Excerpt:
- Sandra Oh [11:49]:
Sunday, the 3rd of October, 1982. Dear Diary, I hate myself. I also think I'll commit suicide. Nothing is worth living for. I'm no good at anything.
Notable Quote:
- Sandra Oh [13:05]: "I just have so much compassion for that young person."
Overcoming Discrimination in Hollywood
Sandra recounts her early struggles in Hollywood, addressing the lack of roles for Asian actors and the pervasive racism in the industry. She narrates a pivotal moment from her diaries when an agent dismissed her due to her ethnicity, fueling her determination to succeed on her own terms.
Notable Quote:
- Sandra Oh [22:38]: "There's nothing there for me. What do I do?"
Embracing Middle Age
Sandra shares her evolving perspective on aging, emphasizing the balance and introspection that come with middle age. She discusses the physical and mental challenges but also the liberation from past burdens, allowing her to focus on personal growth and meaningful questions.
Notable Quote:
- Sandra Oh [28:03]: "It is great because I feel balanced enough to really start digging into very important questions."
Creative Pursuits and Upcoming Roles
Transitioning to her upcoming role in Twelfth Night, Sandra explains her approach to preparing for the character of Olivia. She contrasts her experiences in theater with television, highlighting the spontaneity and interactive nature of live performances.
Notable Quote:
- Sandra Oh [19:14]: "I want to be very, very facile with the dialogue... It's all about reacting to what you're saying."
Reflections on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Sandra addresses the current climate surrounding DEI, expressing concern over the diminishing emphasis on these principles. She reflects on how DEI initiatives in Canada provided her with opportunities but also recognizes the ongoing challenges and internalized struggles associated with racism and sexism.
Notable Quote:
- Sandra Oh [37:12]: "What is lost is the real beginning of a recognition that I thought was happening... racism actually exists."
Maintaining Artistic Integrity Amidst Political Climate
The conversation touches on the challenges public figures face in expressing political views without risking their careers. Sandra emphasizes her commitment to her art, aiming to create meaningful stories that resonate with audiences rather than making political statements.
Notable Quote:
- Sandra Oh [18:18]: "My work is to make you feel something."
Final Thoughts and Personal Growth
Sandra concludes by reflecting on her continuous journey of self-discovery and the importance of addressing internalized issues. She underscores the significance of personal resilience and the pursuit of authenticity in both her personal and professional life.
Notable Quote:
- Sandra Oh [41:42]: "I'm really working with the internalization of my own issues... to free myself from it as much as I can for the rest of my life."
Conclusion
The episode provides a comprehensive look into Sandra Oh's life, highlighting her resilience, dedication to her craft, and the personal growth she has achieved through her experiences. Listeners gain valuable insights into the complexities of balancing fame, personal identity, and the pursuit of meaningful artistic expression.
Additional Information:
- Produced by: Seth Kelly
- Edited by: Annabelle Bacon
- Mixing by: Sophia Landman
- Original Music by: Pat McCusker, Rowan Nimisto, and Marian Lozano
- Photography by: Devin Yelkin
- Executive Producer: Alison Benedikt
Related Content:
- Upcoming Episode: David talks with former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich about the political landscape and the concept of the political center.
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